Australia Bans YouTube Accounts for Under-16s Amidst Child Safety Concerns

Australia is taking further steps to ensure child safety online by restricting YouTube access for users under 16, commencing in December. This initiative complements prior bans on several social media platforms, reflecting a broader strategy to protect young people from online dangers. The eSafety Commissioner’s assessment highlighted the potential harm YouTube poses to children. Australian leaders have underscored the government’s commitment to safeguarding the mental health and well-being of children in the digital realm. Statistics reveal that YouTube is a popular platform among Australian children, and a significant proportion have reported exposure to harmful content. The new restrictions will allow under-16s to view videos but will limit their ability to engage with interactive features such as comments, content creation, and personalized recommendations.